Does creatine cause hair loss? Hair loss is a global problem these days irrespective of gender, sex, and age.
A lot of reasons assist in hair loss such as hard water, global warming, increased pollution, scorching sunlight, and much more.
However, people have always been keen enough to know if creatine is behind the massive hair fall.
What Is Creatine?
Creatine is just a type of amino acid that helps make and store a molecule called phosphocreatine (PCR). It’s what your muscles use to make energy for short-term, high-energy workouts.
Experts say creatine has a bad reputation.
Experts point out that research has shown that creatine can help boost memory and brain health and that it can be beneficial for people with nerve problems, diabetes, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and traumatic brain injuries.
The supplement could even help reduce the effects of a concussion.
They also point out that creatine and exercise can help slow down or even reverse muscle loss that comes with getting older, called sarcopenia.
Does Creatine Monohydrate Cause Hair Loss?
It is true that creatine can lead to hair loss, however, the causal link is indirect.
When taking creatine supplements, the levels of DHT in the body increase, thus altering the enzyme responsible for the conversion of testosterone hormone into DHT, resulting in hair loss.
The normal cycle of hair follicle growth is characterized by a period of growth, a period of rest, and a period of hair follicle decline.
This hair growth phase is accelerated by the increased binding of DHT to hair follicles.
As a result, the hair strands become thinner and weaker, resulting in rapid hair loss.
In a 2009 medically reviewed study, a cohort of rugby players were exposed to a high concentration of creatine supplements for a period of seven days, followed by a period of maintenance with a lower concentration.
The results showed a 50% increase in DHT levels in the first seven days, which remained at 40% in the maintenance period.
The study did not have a direct correlation with hair loss, however, the increase in DHT is remarkable.
Furthermore, if a person is prone to hair loss as a result of inherited genetic predisposition, then a high level of DHT in the body may increase the rate of hair loss.
It is yet to be determined whether the use of creatine supplements can result in hair loss.
The increased levels of Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) can have an effect on hair growth by accelerating the cycle of individual follicles, resulting in hair loss over a period of time.
It is uncertain whether the DHT increase from creatine supplements can have an impact on reproduction.
Further research is necessary to determine if this is the case.
How Fast Does Creatine Cause Hair Loss?
If you suspect that you may be suffering from creatine-induced hair loss, shedding is likely to commence approximately two months after the supplement is initiated.
In the event that the observed loss or thinning of hair is caused by creatine, hair may return to normal after discontinuation of the supplement.
On the other hand, creatine may be the cause of androgenic baldness or other genetic predisposition.
Consequently, hair loss treatment may be necessary to restore hair growth.
It is not conclusive that creatine is the cause of hair loss.
However, as previously mentioned, if you are contemplating discontinuing creatine due to hair loss, it may be beneficial to determine the underlying cause.
Does Creatine Cause Hair Loss In Females?
Hormonal hair loss is more likely to occur in men than in women.
Hormonal hair loss is less common in women than in men.
Women have lower DHT levels than men and lower testosterone levels than men.
If you experience hormonal hair loss, it may be due to a medical condition, such as hypothyroidism or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).
Therefore, hair loss caused by creatine should not be a concern for women.
Even if the DHT increase is associated with creatine, a healthy female does not have enough circulating testosterone to generate a significant amount of DHT.
You Might Like Also: What’s The Difference Between Lice Eggs Vs Dandruff? Get Rid Of Them
How Can You Prevent Hair Loss Due To Creatine?
It has not been demonstrated that the two are inextricably linked, however, there are a variety of treatments available to address hair loss, ranging from medications such as those prescribed by dermatologists, to hair transplants and laser treatments.
In any event, it is advisable to consult with a dermatologist to gain an understanding of the underlying causes of hair loss in order to effectively manage the condition.
Additionally, you need to ‘feed’ your hair from within. The best way to do this is by increasing your protein intake.
This can be done by eating foods high in protein, such as fish and meat. Whole grains, beans, and nuts are also good sources of protein.
Other nutrients that can help your hair grow include omega-3s, iron, and zinc, as well as vitamins A, C, and E.
Discover More: Hip Dips: Why Do You Have Them? How To Get Rid Of It?
When Should You See A Trichiatrist Or Trichologist?
As previously mentioned, creatine supplementation does not cause hair loss.
However, it is recommended to consult a physician if hair loss is present.
In addition, patients should consult their physician if they experience abrupt, uneven hair loss or excessive hair loss during brushing or washing.
This is also applicable if you notice too many hair strands on your clothes, on the floor, and here and there.
It is possible to treat a variety of hair loss conditions.
Your physician will connect with you to identify the underlying cause or root cause of hair loss and also suggest a treatment plan that is suitable for your individual needs.
May You Like Also: Masseter Botox: What You Need To Know Before Trying
Wrapping Up
It is possible that creatine may be associated with hair loss, however, this is mainly a concern for men, particularly those who are predisposed to baldness.
If you have a family history of early hair loss or alopecia or if you are experiencing hair loss yourself, it is recommended that you seek medical advice.
It is important to remember that, regardless of whether you have long hair or short hair, you are beautiful on the inside.
You May Like Also: